Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for residents and visitors of Qal'ah-ye Shahi, Afghanistan, where the sun's intensity can significantly impact skin health. With a climate characterized by dry summers typical of a Csa zone, UV levels can peak at dangerous highs, particularly between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, when values soar to 11. Being aware of these levels is not just about tracking sunburn; it's a vital step in protecting your skin from harmful rays and preventing long-term damage. By paying attention to the UV Index, you can enjoy the sun safely and keep your skin healthy while exploring the beautiful landscapes of Qal'ah-ye Shahi.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins a steady ascent, starting at a moderate 3 by 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it climbs to 5, catching the attention of early risers. The intensity peaks dramatically at 10:00 AM, hitting a blistering 10, and remains at its highest at 11:00 AM and 12:00 PM with a value of 11. As the afternoon unfolds, the index slowly retreats, dipping to 9 at 1:00 PM and further to 7 by 2:00 PM. By the time the sun begins its descent, the numbers dwindle to 4 at 3:00 PM, and taper off to a gentle 1 by 5:00 PM, disappearing entirely by 7:00 PM. This hourly fluctuation underscores the importance of sun protection during those peak hours, especially when the UV Index soars. Remember to stay safe and shield yourself during the hottest times of the day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 08:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 09:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 10:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 7 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
As the seasons change, so do the levels of UV radiation, significantly impacting sun exposure safety. January begins with a moderate UV Index of 5, allowing for a burn time of 30 minutes, but this escalates rapidly. By February, the Index climbs to 7, classifying it as high with a reduced burn time of 25 minutes. The spring and summer months reach their peak, with March hitting a very high level of 10 and April to August experiencing extreme levels at 11-12, necessitating caution with a mere 10-minute burn time during these months. September and October still carry substantial risk, reflected in their very high UV Index of 10 and 8, respectively. Residents and visitors should take precautions, especially between March and October, when the risk of sunburn is highest. Recommendations include wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen frequently, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours. As the year ends, November and December see a return to moderate UV levels, providing some relief with increased burn times of 30 minutes.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mazar-e Sharif UVI | 3 | 5 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
| Jalalabad UVI | 4 | 5 | 9 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| Qal'ah-ye Shahi | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Herat UVI | 5 | 6 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 12 | 12 | 11 | 10 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Kandahar UVI | 5 | 7 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 9 | 6 | 5 |
| Kabul UVI | 6 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 13 | 13 | 12 | 11 | 8 | 6 | 4 |